T-Mobile details quirky prorated ETF policy – almost useless

T-Mobile, facing ETF-pressures from consumers and the Feds alike, have finally given in to the prorated ETF trend. But, we really can’t fathom why America’s favorite (at least according to JD Power) wireless carrier wouldn’t give customers a bigger break on their ETF (early termination fee) policy.

While the rest of the Big Four will be rolling out, or have already introduced, prorated ETF policies that decrease the penalty fee on a sliding scale (proportional to the remaining contract length), T-Mobile has gone the decidedly more questionable route.

T-Mobile’s prorating policy breaks down the $200 T-Mobile ETF to a much more wallet-friendly $100 once the contract dwindles down to 6 months in remaining length. With 3 months left on the commitment-clock, T-Mobile will forgive all but $50 of your ETF. The last 30 days will cut your ETF down to $50 or the remainder of your wireless bill (whichever is less).

So, T-Mobile’s prorated ETF policy is almost completely useless for most people looking to get a break on their ETF mid-contract. But, for those of you looking to jump ship just a bit early of the contract’s expiration, T-Mo’s 6-month cutoff might be just the kind of prorating you’re looking for. Still, it would have been nice to see T-Mobile follow suit with the rest of the national US wireless carriers.